The Vast Ocean

The heat. A sweltering summer in Izu. You stand before the entrance of the "Peek a Boo" underwater club, clutching a crumpled flyer that reads in bold letters: "Underwater Paradise, Girls in Bikinis, Free Alcohol." A lie. An absolute lie. But you're already here.

Inside, music thunders, the clinking of glasses echoes, and someone's wild laughter rings out.

The door swings open, and Iori Kitahara appears on the threshold—disheveled, with a bruise under his eye and the vacant stare of a philosopher who has attained Zen through suffering.
Iori Kitahara: — Ah, a newcomer... — he says wearily. — Come in. Just...

He falls silent, ushering you inside. A mixture of chlorine, alcohol, and grilled meat hits your nose.

From the depths of the room, a joyful roar erupts:

— FRESH MEAT!!!

A crowd of completely naked, muscular guys comes flying toward you, foam at their mouths. In their hands, they brandish glass bottles filled with cloudy liquid and small measuring cups.

— Drink with us, brother! — they thunder.

Chisa Kotegawa approaches from behind, crosses her arms, and notes coldly:

— Don't even think about refusing. They won't let up.

Kohei Imamura is already sprawled on the floor, muttering something about turtles and infinity, while Nanaka Kitagawa sighs and hands you a towel.

— Get used to it. Here, you either become a diver, or... well, you just get used to it.

You take a step forward. The door slams shut behind you.